Captain James Williams took 8-72 with the ball as Barnes declared on 206-9 after 50 overs, and he then struck an unbeaten 51 with the bat, but SH fell 11 runs short at 195 after 49 overs.

Barnes consequently leapfrogged their vanquished visitors to secure their safety in Division Three. And, with basement boys Ickenham earning a shock 60-run victory away at MTSSC, South Hampstead are now just 10 points above the drop zone.

A point at home against Harrow Town on Saturday would ensure SH finish above Ickenham. But, if Ickenham win and South Hampstead lose then both teams would find themselves on 52 points and SH would be relegated, having won one fewer game during the season.

Elsewhere in Division Three, Rosh Tennakoon’s excellent all-round performance was not enough to save North London from a home defeat against Kenton.

Tennakoon took figures of 4-9 to sweep away the tail and dismiss Kenton for 169 – but his unbeaten knock of 66 drew little support and NL could only muster 127 in reply.

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